After grappling with service issues since launching the long-anticipated bike share program in July, Gotcha has launched a new app for users to access the bikes.
The new app, called “Gotcha Mobility” in the Apple App Store and Google Play Store, was designed to address hardware and software issues with the bikes, including problems with connectivity between the apps and bikes.
Reviewers of the previous app, rated 2.4 out of five stars on the Apple App Store, complained of not being able to end their rides on the bikes, leading to extra charges. The app’s map also did not accurately show where bikes could be found.
One user, who tried to use the bikes on LSU’s campus, complained of glitches with the app that didn’t allow them to unlock and use a bike.
“Oftentimes after scanning the bikes they will give an error saying I cannot use the bike, or the bike is already in use even though it is locked … this might be because of the people who are having trouble ending their rides after locking the bike,” writes that user.
“We did significant testing of the (new) app before launching,” says Caroline Passe, a spokeswoman for the South Carolina-based company. “It’s about improving the rider’s experience.”
Baton Rouge’s fleet is up to 400 bikes stationed at 51 hubs. Once fully expanded, the fleet will feature 500 bikes.
Since launching in July, the program has seen more than 3,800 unique users travel just under 8,000 miles, according to stats provided by Gotcha. Additionally, the company says roughly 400 people have signed up for a Gotcha subscription.
The top hubs in the city are Tower Drive at the LSU Student Center, with 1,027 rides since July; the Business Education Complex and Patrick Taylor Hall at LSU (905); West State Street and Highland Road (807); Louisiana Art and Science Museum in downtown (657); and South Campus Drive at LSU UREC (633).
“Gotcha is a young company, a growing company,” says Rowdy Gaudet, assistant chief administrative officer. “The numbers are showing that there’s a lot of ridership on campuses, and we’re certainly seeing a number of visitors in the community taking advantage of the program.”
To promote the new app, Gotcha is waiving its unlock fee during January.
